In Kanchanpur’s Kutiakbhar village, located near the Indian border, 40 families are living in fear of floods as the Mahakali River continues to pose a threat. Residents have started moving their livestock and grains to safer areas in preparation for possible flooding.
Village caught between two rivers
Kutiakbhar, a village in Dodhara Chandani Municipality-10, sits between two rivers: the Jogbuda and Mahakali. As these rivers meet, water flow increases, and the village is the first to experience flooding. Every year, when the Mahakali River swells, it blocks the flow of the Jogbuda River, causing the entire area to flood.
Local resident Khadke Budha said, “There hasn’t been a major flood yet this year, but we never know when it might come and wash everything away.” To prepare, he has built a wooden boat to help evacuate his family and neighbors if needed.
No permanent solution, just fear
Despite repeated demands for permanent embankments along the rivers, nothing has been done so far. With predictions of heavy rainfall this year, fear has grown among locals. The river now flows dangerously close to their homes.
To stay safe, many families have already moved their cattle and grains to higher ground. Budha has shifted his rice, wheat, and livestock across the Jogbuda River to a safer area known as Baidiphanta. Some families are staying on their own land there, while others have built temporary shelters on neighbors’ land.
Two safe houses built, but still not enough
According to Tek Bahadur Sunar, coordinator of the local disaster management committee, “Many people have moved their grains and cattle to safer areas. People can stay in safe houses, but how can we protect the livestock and food?” Last year, two safe houses were built in Kutiakbhar, and they are being used by the community during emergencies.
So far, three families have moved their belongings, livestock, and young children to high ground across the river. Some have even built raised platforms in their homes to keep their food and animals safe.
Weak infrastructure adds to the problem
A suspension bridge has been built over the Jogbuda River, but it becomes difficult to reach during floods. Rescue operations then rely on security personnel to help affected villagers.
Every year, nearly half a dozen settlements in Dodhara Chandani area face flooding due to the Jogbuda River. But Kutiakbhar suffers the most—flooding starts as soon as the Mahakali River overflows. Most homes here are made of mud, and the village is mostly inhabited by Dalit and low-income families.
Last year, during the monsoon, floods in late Asar and Bhadra (July–September) destroyed more than a dozen houses.
Locals demand action or relocation
Locals believe that only a strong, permanent embankment on both rivers can solve this issue. But because of the high cost, many are now asking the government to relocate the entire village to a safer area. Some families have already left—some have even crossed into India in search of safety.
